Saturday, April 4, 2009

The What of Prayer: Evening Prayer

Under the Jewish calendar, sunset was the beginning of the day, rather than the end of the day.  And it was quite common for ancient Jews to pray just after sunset, as the day was beginning (one of three main prayer times during the day).

Over the centuries, our conception of time has changed, but the practice of Evening Prayer, sometimes called Vespers, around the time of sunset has continued.  Evening Prayer is so common, in fact, that many churches offer formal Vespers services following the prayer model. 

Evening Prayer is similar to Morning Prayer, incorporating daily scripture readings, a confession, the Lord’s Prayer, and other prayers. 

Today's Prayer Prompt: Try Evening Prayer sometime near sunset.

  • “I am the light of the world.  He who follows me shall not walk in darkness, but have the light of life.” John 8:12
  • Confession of Sin
  • Read Psalm 43
  • Read Jeremiah 31:27-34
  • The Lord’s Prayer
  • Other Prayers
  • “May the God of hope fill us with joy and peace through the power of the Holy Spirit.  Amen.”  Romans 15:13

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